…promises to strengthen use of AI in advancing electoral integrity

By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – THE Executive Director, Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, has been inaugurated officially to be a member of the Artificial Intelligence Advisory Group on Elections, AI AGE, convened by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, IFES.

Itodo’s prestigious membership appointment into AI AGE, is based on the recognition of his extensive experience and dedication to advancing democratic governance and technological innovation across the African continent.

The inauguration ceremony, held virtually on June 12, brought together election administrators, AI specialists, and global democracy advocates committed to ensuring that AI technologies are developed and deployed in ways that uphold electoral transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.

AI AGE brings together a diverse group of AI experts and a coalition of electoral authorities to collectively address the increasing role of AI in elections and its profound impact on democracy worldwide. AI AGE aims to ensure that AI development, deployment and governance safeguards electoral integrity, fosters public engagement in political processes, strengthens respect for human rights, encourages local innovation, and reflects local aspirations and concerns.

Meanwhile, he emphasized the urgency of guardrails for ethical AI uptake in elections across Africa.

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) works to strengthen the integrity of elections and democratic institutions worldwide. Since 1987, IFES has supported electoral processes in over 145 countries.

He said: “Given the exponential growth in the adoption of AI in the electoral process, especially against the background of democratic backsliding, the AI AGE provides strategic thought leadership on guardrails for responsible and ethical use of AI in elections. Additionally, the AI AGE is a mechanism that will support electoral commissions and other electoral actors on their AI adoption journey.

“As a member of AI AGE I look forward to mobilizing a coalition of the willing to produce knowledge and resources that strengthens the use of AI in advancing electoral integrity across Africa.”

Samson Itodo, a renowned community organizer with extensive expertise in African politics, elections, social movements, and youth development, joins the advisory group at a time when elections around the world face increasing threats from disinformation, voter manipulation, and AI-driven disruptions.

This latest appointment complements his role as a member of the African Union Advisory Group on AI in Peace, Security and Governance. Samson has been pivotal in advancing electoral integrity and democracy in Africa, as Executive Director of Yiaga Africa and one of Africa’s leading voices on democratic reform.

The AI AGE is a groundbreaking initiative that brings together electoral authorities and AI experts to develop global principles, frameworks, and tools to guide the responsible use of AI in electoral contexts. The group’s work will inform policymakers, tech developers, and election bodies worldwide, offering proactive solutions to address the evolving risks and opportunities posed by AI.